Nixing Preemptive PLP Purge
The Bahama Journal Editorial
There is a sense we are getting that tells us that there may be forces and elements currently at work in the precincts of the Progressive Liberal Party that would [if given their chance] help their organization to a defeat.
There are occasions in life when the sure thing can become the very thing that is lost – having been sacrificed to greed, jealousy and a species of one-upmanship run amok.
One such occasion now seems to be upon the Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie as some of his party’s more senior members seek to persuade him [and the Party hierarchy] to deny nominations to a number of his closest allies; inclusive of Leslie Miller, Obie Wilchcombe, Vincent Peet – and Shane Gibson.
If Mr. Christie was ever dumb enough to agree with these men, he would in that same gesture prove that he is unfit to lead this nation.
In addition, we seriously wonder if the men who are trying to advise the former prime minister that he should so purge his party really understand the true import of what they are suggesting.
We cut – as it were – to the chase: Mr. Christie would prove himself a hypocrite of the highest order were he to be perceived as being party to this kind of proposed back-stabbing.
Like others who are all for probity in public life, we are also realistic enough to know and appreciate – as fact – that the Bahamian people are smart enough and savvy enough to appreciate – again as fact – that they are voting for men and not angels.
It therefore follows that, if the people in a constituency; members in a party – and others concerned – are prepared to support a candidate, that should be their choice.
Furthermore, Mr. Christie would be well-advised to watch carefully as this or that self-serving crew tries to get him to second-guess his earlier notions that there should always be some second chance for this or that person.
In addition, the PLP’s party leader would also be well-advised to tune in to what the people are saying at the constituency level – this because this is going to be decisive whenever general elections are called.
Clearly, those men who would have the PLP’s leader divest him and his team of some of their most precious assets are jesting.
If they are not jesting, they must be on some mission or the other designed to help the PLP to a resounding defeat.
No political organization can ever hope to succeed if it allows itself to become little more than a mechanism designed to service the needs of the few.
Indeed, all who have succeeded have done so because they have kept close to the people whose voices matter most; namely the masses.
Put simply, winning a seat in parliament has all to do with being – as the saying goes – popular.
It therefore follows that the people can and should be allowed their choices of candidate, warts and all.
These people know better than anyone else that election to parliament is not about selection to sing in a heaven-bound choir.
Evidently, there will arise occasions when the people decide that they want this or that man or woman to represent them, regardless.
We remember some of Whitney Bastian’s travails when he sought [and did not get] a PLP nomination. As the record shows, he begged, he cajoled and he was denied.
He went on to win the seat in South Andros because he was the people’s choice.
Clearly, then, the same principle applies to all others who find favor with the Bahamian people. This list could well include the likes of Leslie Miller, Vincent Peet, Obie Wilchcombe and [yes!] Shane Gibson.
We are today bemused by those men who have decided that, among all others, they are uniquely qualified to stand in judgment of some other men and women.
Like others who make it their business to take stock of matters political, we are sometimes left bemused by some of the stuff that comes to our attention.
We are today bemused not only because we know a thing or two about the men who are said to advising PLP leader to deep-six a number of his parliamentary colleagues.
In addition, they would have "their leader" renounce giving his nod to the candidacy of a man who was once a Cabinet Minister under the leadership of none other than the Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie.
These men – again as we understand the matter at hand – would have the former prime minister sever connection with some of his parliamentary colleagues – men who have been with him through thick and thin.
May 17th, 2011
The Bahama Journal Editorial
A political blog about Bahamian politics in The Bahamas, Bahamian Politicans - and the entire Bahamas political lot. Bahamian Blogger Dennis Dames keeps you updated on the political news and views throughout the islands of The Bahamas without fear or favor. Bahamian Politicians and the Bahamian Political Arena: Updates one Post at a time on Bahamas Politics and Bahamas Politicans; and their local, regional and international policies and perspectives.
Showing posts with label Obie Wilchcombe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Obie Wilchcombe. Show all posts
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
George Smith - former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) MP says that he hopes his party's supporters will see the wisdom in his words about the withdrawal of certain PLP candidates from the upcoming general election
Ex-PLP MP defends controversial letter
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net
DEFENDING the letter he co-penned calling for the withdrawal of certain PLP candidates from the upcoming general election, former PLP MP George Smith said that in the passage of time he hopes his party's supporters will see the wisdom in his words.
Speaking with The Tribune yesterday, Mr Smith said he, with former PLP chairman Raynard Rigby and former campaign coordinator Philip Galanis, were not being critical of these particular candidates because they believed what was being said about them - but rather there is a "perception" that surrounds some of them.
"If the public perceives you to be something, that is what you are. I don't believe that anybody, principally the leader, can put affection for any individual above the good of the Bahamas, the good of the party, and I believe - since I believe the PLP is the best party in the Bahamas - we should remove as many stumbling blocks as possible. And it is not always easy to do that. Sometimes you have to ask your best friend to move aside," he said.
Mr Smith was referring to a letter that he, Mr Rigby and Mr Galanis wrote to PLP leader Perry Christie urging him to block the nominations of Shane Gibson, Vincent Peet, Obie Wilchcombe, V Alfred Gray, Leslie Miller, Anthony Moss and Picewell Forbes for fear that their nominations could hurt the party on a national scale if the varied pasts of some of them were once again highlighted during a general election campaign.
The PLP's leader went on record to express his disappointment that this "internal" letter had been leaked to the press.
However, Mr Christie said, he was not going to be distracted by this latest incident and that his party remains focused on supporting the "excellent candidates" and hardworking activists who comprise his party.
Vetting
"Each and every candidate is required to undergo a vigorous vetting process - a process that is open, fair and transparent. All voices are welcome, and the process is both balanced and inclusive," Mr Christie said.
While accepting this, Mr Smith said that a requirement not to run "tainted" candidates does not come from a fear that the FNM will gain some political mileage, but rather a belief that the people of the country ought to have faith that the people who represent them in Parliament will always put the welfare of the country above their own personal interests.
"That has to be obvious. If the public believes you are in there to enrich yourself, even if you don't, if the public believes it, they will question your activities.
"And, it's like if a fella' has a weakness in a particular area, if he is for instance a gambler, you have to be very careful how you expose him to the great temptation of money. That got one politician in trouble.
"Or if a fella' is a heavy womanizer, you have to be careful that you protect him from his own weakness.
"And some of us became victims and paid prices because of perception and that is how it is."
Mr Smith said that this advice is, of course, applicable to the FNM as well.
"They have people there who the people have had cause to question, Tommy Turnquest, and Dion Foulkes, and you have to recognise that my actions in this instance will do damage to my party," he said.
Mr Smith also highlighted, however, that he does believe in rehabilitation.
"If any wrong that I may have committed, if I was sentenced to a prison term, I would have been out long time. But I also believe that our society should be a forgiving society. So if some of these fella's would just step aside and acknowledge that my action in this particular thing was wrong, and not because it was legally wrong, it was perceived to be wrong. Step aside, and come back," he said.
Mr Smith gave the famous example of Jamaica's former Prime Minister, PJ Patterson, who was forced to resign as the Minister of Finance to later return as chairman of his party and then eventually become Prime Minister.
"I also believe that the problem we are facing in this country is, I am not sure if (Prime Minister) Ingraham and other people who call themselves leaders look at themselves and look and say am I a liability?" he laughed.
Having been roundly criticised on the talkshows for the now infamous letter, Mr Smith said people have a right to "cuss him."
But, at the end of the day he asked, "is my message right?"
May 18, 2011
tribune242
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net
DEFENDING the letter he co-penned calling for the withdrawal of certain PLP candidates from the upcoming general election, former PLP MP George Smith said that in the passage of time he hopes his party's supporters will see the wisdom in his words.
Speaking with The Tribune yesterday, Mr Smith said he, with former PLP chairman Raynard Rigby and former campaign coordinator Philip Galanis, were not being critical of these particular candidates because they believed what was being said about them - but rather there is a "perception" that surrounds some of them.
"If the public perceives you to be something, that is what you are. I don't believe that anybody, principally the leader, can put affection for any individual above the good of the Bahamas, the good of the party, and I believe - since I believe the PLP is the best party in the Bahamas - we should remove as many stumbling blocks as possible. And it is not always easy to do that. Sometimes you have to ask your best friend to move aside," he said.
Mr Smith was referring to a letter that he, Mr Rigby and Mr Galanis wrote to PLP leader Perry Christie urging him to block the nominations of Shane Gibson, Vincent Peet, Obie Wilchcombe, V Alfred Gray, Leslie Miller, Anthony Moss and Picewell Forbes for fear that their nominations could hurt the party on a national scale if the varied pasts of some of them were once again highlighted during a general election campaign.
The PLP's leader went on record to express his disappointment that this "internal" letter had been leaked to the press.
However, Mr Christie said, he was not going to be distracted by this latest incident and that his party remains focused on supporting the "excellent candidates" and hardworking activists who comprise his party.
Vetting
"Each and every candidate is required to undergo a vigorous vetting process - a process that is open, fair and transparent. All voices are welcome, and the process is both balanced and inclusive," Mr Christie said.
While accepting this, Mr Smith said that a requirement not to run "tainted" candidates does not come from a fear that the FNM will gain some political mileage, but rather a belief that the people of the country ought to have faith that the people who represent them in Parliament will always put the welfare of the country above their own personal interests.
"That has to be obvious. If the public believes you are in there to enrich yourself, even if you don't, if the public believes it, they will question your activities.
"And, it's like if a fella' has a weakness in a particular area, if he is for instance a gambler, you have to be very careful how you expose him to the great temptation of money. That got one politician in trouble.
"Or if a fella' is a heavy womanizer, you have to be careful that you protect him from his own weakness.
"And some of us became victims and paid prices because of perception and that is how it is."
Mr Smith said that this advice is, of course, applicable to the FNM as well.
"They have people there who the people have had cause to question, Tommy Turnquest, and Dion Foulkes, and you have to recognise that my actions in this instance will do damage to my party," he said.
Mr Smith also highlighted, however, that he does believe in rehabilitation.
"If any wrong that I may have committed, if I was sentenced to a prison term, I would have been out long time. But I also believe that our society should be a forgiving society. So if some of these fella's would just step aside and acknowledge that my action in this particular thing was wrong, and not because it was legally wrong, it was perceived to be wrong. Step aside, and come back," he said.
Mr Smith gave the famous example of Jamaica's former Prime Minister, PJ Patterson, who was forced to resign as the Minister of Finance to later return as chairman of his party and then eventually become Prime Minister.
"I also believe that the problem we are facing in this country is, I am not sure if (Prime Minister) Ingraham and other people who call themselves leaders look at themselves and look and say am I a liability?" he laughed.
Having been roundly criticised on the talkshows for the now infamous letter, Mr Smith said people have a right to "cuss him."
But, at the end of the day he asked, "is my message right?"
May 18, 2011
tribune242
Raynard Rigby - former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) chairman resigned from a crucial party election committee
Rigby resigns from PLP committee
By CANDIA DAMES
Guardian News Editor
candia@nasguard.com
Many PLPs angered by letter to Christie
A day after The Nassau Guardian revealed that three influential members of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) were seeking to block the re-nomination of several PLP members of Parliament, former party chairman Raynard Rigby resigned from a crucial party election committee.
The Nassau Guardian confirmed that Rigby resigned yesterday as the coordinator of the southwest constituencies for the party in the upcoming general election.
It was considered a key position as the PLP oils its machinery for what some pundits think will shape up to be a bitterly fought battle at the polls.
Rigby told The Guardian he had no comment on the matter.
As the party has already gone into campaign mode, Rigby was selected to organize the party’s efforts in southwest New Providence.
As was reported exclusively by The Guardian Monday, Rigby was one of the authors of a letter written to PLP leader Perry Christie, urging him to make “bold decisions” with respect to party nominations.
The other authors of the letter were Philip Galanis, a former parliamentarian who organized the party’s re-election effort in 2007, and George Smith, a former parliamentarian and Cabinet minister.
The three men are against the nominations of Shane Gibson (Golden Gates); Vincent Peet (North Andros and the Berry Islands); Obie Wilchcombe (West End and Bimini); V. Alfred Gray (MICAL); Picewell Forbes (South Andros); Leslie Miller (Blue Hills) and Anthony Moss (Exuma).
They also said the party must be in a position to defend Arnold Forbes (Mount Moriah) in the event he faces any attacks over a reported challenge in his professional life.
Wilchcombe, Gray, Miller and Arnold Forbes have been ratified by the party’s National General Council.
Still, Rigby, Smith and Galanis suggested that these nominations ought to be reviewed if the party is to have a chance of winning the election.
They believe that the various controversies would hurt the party’s chances at the polls.
Christie has already expressed disappointment that someone leaked the letter to The Guardian and many within the party are calling for the heads of the three authors.
They have come under fire from PLPs angry that they would even suggest the men are not suited to run on the PLP’s ticket.
Rigby, Galanis and Smith are themselves no strangers to controversy. They are among the most outspoken men in the PLP. Rigby has made several candid comments since the 2007 election that have angered some PLPs.
In 2008, Rigby blasted the opposition for “failing to properly address national issues”.
At the time, he said: "I think the opposition has demonstrated a degree of strength, however, there appears to be a lack of coordination between what is being done in Parliament and what is required to be done outside of Parliament by the party and its broad-based membership."
Earlier, he said a number of things went wrong for the PLP in the last election.
"People were not connected to our message. People did not understand what the government was trying to achieve by these anchor development projects," he said.
"People didn’t get a sense that the government was close enough to them."
Rigby — who made the remarks after the last general election while he was still PLP chairman — said the party probably made some errors in judgment as it related to selecting candidates.
"And I think by and large people bought into this question of Mr. Christie that he was weak and indecisive and we allowed the FNM, to a very great extent, to determine the issues in the election, and they focused purely on issues of leadership," he said at the time.
In 2009, Rigby said publicly that it was inappropriate for Wilchcombe to serve as chairman of the approaching PLP convention and run for the deputy leadership post.
And on numerous occasions, Rigby has publicly criticized Christie’s leadership.
But the various controversies were set aside several months ago when the party’s leadership appointed Rigby coordinator for the southwest constituencies for the approaching election.
Some observers viewed it as a “kiss and make-up” between Rigby and Christie.
Christie has repeatedly talked about the importance of the party getting an early start as the campaign season approaches.
It announced candidates for the 2007 election just several weeks before voters went to the polls.
In addition to Wilchcombe, Gray, Miller and Arnold Forbes, the PLP has already made key selections for the upcoming election.
They are: Renardo Curry (North Abaco); Dr. Andre Rollins (Fort Charlotte); Alex Storr (Long Island and Ragged Island) Tanisha Tynes (Lucaya); Clay Sweeting (North Eleuthera); Dr. Bernard J. Nottage (Bain and Grants Town); Fred Mitchell (Fox Hill); Frank E. Smith (St. Thomas More); Melanie Griffin (Yamacraw); Glenys Hanna-Martin (Englerston); Cleola Hamilton (South Beach); Dion Smith (Kennedy); Gregory Moss (Marco City); Dr. Michael Darville (Pineridge); Jerome Gomez (Killarney); Dr. Daniel Johnson (Carmichael); Senator Jerome K. Fitzgerald (Marathon); Senator Michael Halkitis (Golden Isles); Senator C.V. Hope Strachan (Sea Breeze) and Dr. Kendal V.O. Major (Garden Hills).
5/18/2011
thenassauguardian
By CANDIA DAMES
Guardian News Editor
candia@nasguard.com
Many PLPs angered by letter to Christie
A day after The Nassau Guardian revealed that three influential members of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) were seeking to block the re-nomination of several PLP members of Parliament, former party chairman Raynard Rigby resigned from a crucial party election committee.
The Nassau Guardian confirmed that Rigby resigned yesterday as the coordinator of the southwest constituencies for the party in the upcoming general election.
It was considered a key position as the PLP oils its machinery for what some pundits think will shape up to be a bitterly fought battle at the polls.
Rigby told The Guardian he had no comment on the matter.
As the party has already gone into campaign mode, Rigby was selected to organize the party’s efforts in southwest New Providence.
As was reported exclusively by The Guardian Monday, Rigby was one of the authors of a letter written to PLP leader Perry Christie, urging him to make “bold decisions” with respect to party nominations.
The other authors of the letter were Philip Galanis, a former parliamentarian who organized the party’s re-election effort in 2007, and George Smith, a former parliamentarian and Cabinet minister.
The three men are against the nominations of Shane Gibson (Golden Gates); Vincent Peet (North Andros and the Berry Islands); Obie Wilchcombe (West End and Bimini); V. Alfred Gray (MICAL); Picewell Forbes (South Andros); Leslie Miller (Blue Hills) and Anthony Moss (Exuma).
They also said the party must be in a position to defend Arnold Forbes (Mount Moriah) in the event he faces any attacks over a reported challenge in his professional life.
Wilchcombe, Gray, Miller and Arnold Forbes have been ratified by the party’s National General Council.
Still, Rigby, Smith and Galanis suggested that these nominations ought to be reviewed if the party is to have a chance of winning the election.
They believe that the various controversies would hurt the party’s chances at the polls.
Christie has already expressed disappointment that someone leaked the letter to The Guardian and many within the party are calling for the heads of the three authors.
They have come under fire from PLPs angry that they would even suggest the men are not suited to run on the PLP’s ticket.
Rigby, Galanis and Smith are themselves no strangers to controversy. They are among the most outspoken men in the PLP. Rigby has made several candid comments since the 2007 election that have angered some PLPs.
In 2008, Rigby blasted the opposition for “failing to properly address national issues”.
At the time, he said: "I think the opposition has demonstrated a degree of strength, however, there appears to be a lack of coordination between what is being done in Parliament and what is required to be done outside of Parliament by the party and its broad-based membership."
Earlier, he said a number of things went wrong for the PLP in the last election.
"People were not connected to our message. People did not understand what the government was trying to achieve by these anchor development projects," he said.
"People didn’t get a sense that the government was close enough to them."
Rigby — who made the remarks after the last general election while he was still PLP chairman — said the party probably made some errors in judgment as it related to selecting candidates.
"And I think by and large people bought into this question of Mr. Christie that he was weak and indecisive and we allowed the FNM, to a very great extent, to determine the issues in the election, and they focused purely on issues of leadership," he said at the time.
In 2009, Rigby said publicly that it was inappropriate for Wilchcombe to serve as chairman of the approaching PLP convention and run for the deputy leadership post.
And on numerous occasions, Rigby has publicly criticized Christie’s leadership.
But the various controversies were set aside several months ago when the party’s leadership appointed Rigby coordinator for the southwest constituencies for the approaching election.
Some observers viewed it as a “kiss and make-up” between Rigby and Christie.
Christie has repeatedly talked about the importance of the party getting an early start as the campaign season approaches.
It announced candidates for the 2007 election just several weeks before voters went to the polls.
In addition to Wilchcombe, Gray, Miller and Arnold Forbes, the PLP has already made key selections for the upcoming election.
They are: Renardo Curry (North Abaco); Dr. Andre Rollins (Fort Charlotte); Alex Storr (Long Island and Ragged Island) Tanisha Tynes (Lucaya); Clay Sweeting (North Eleuthera); Dr. Bernard J. Nottage (Bain and Grants Town); Fred Mitchell (Fox Hill); Frank E. Smith (St. Thomas More); Melanie Griffin (Yamacraw); Glenys Hanna-Martin (Englerston); Cleola Hamilton (South Beach); Dion Smith (Kennedy); Gregory Moss (Marco City); Dr. Michael Darville (Pineridge); Jerome Gomez (Killarney); Dr. Daniel Johnson (Carmichael); Senator Jerome K. Fitzgerald (Marathon); Senator Michael Halkitis (Golden Isles); Senator C.V. Hope Strachan (Sea Breeze) and Dr. Kendal V.O. Major (Garden Hills).
5/18/2011
thenassauguardian
Friday, March 4, 2011
Violent criminals involved with Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) protest... anti-BTC sale
'Violent criminals' in BTC protest crowd
By PACO NUNEZ
Tribune News Editor
MINISTER of National Security Tommy Turnquest revealed that according to police, several violent criminals were among the crowd that protested outside Parliament last week.
Speaking in the House of Assembly yesterday, Mr Turnquest said individuals known to police in connection with crimes as serious as murder, rape, armed robbery, assault with a deadly weapon and shop-breaking were "clearly identifiable" in the anti-BTC sale demonstration in Rawson Square last Wednesday.
Speaking to The Tribune outside the House, Mr Turnquest said the majority of these persons are out on bail, but some of them are convicted criminals.
"We have the pictures, we know who they are," he said.
Mr Turnquest said he raised the issue after opposition PLP members suggested that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham "ran out the back door," attempting to avoid the crowd after last week's session of parliament.
Speaking in the House, the National Security Minister said: "If someone asks me, what do I do in terms of ensuring the safety of the chief executive of the country, it is surely not to walk toward that crowd."
He added that Mr Ingraham is the sort of man who would never ask another person to do something the Prime Minister would not do himself.
Immediately after Mr Turnquest made his comments, PLP MP for West End and Bimini Obie Wilchcombe told the House his party was not responsible for "any unsavoury characters" turning up in Rawson Square.
Mr Wilchcombe said: "At no time was it our intention to put the PM's life in jeopardy. We believe in freedom of speech and the right to assembly, but at no time would we put life in jeopardy."
The protest, organised by a group known as Save BTC for Bahamians, was also joined by BTC union representatives and a large group of PLP supporters.
In the aftermath of the protest, which turned violent at certain points, PLP leader Perry Christie denied reports that he had paid protesters to turn up in Rawson Square.
Last week, Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell also commented in the House of Assembly on claims that protesters were paid by the party to demonstrate.
"Aside from that being untrue, so what if they were paid?" he asked, referring to the practice during the PLP's early protests in the 1960s.
"To mobilise people takes resources: food, buses, and communication, emergency care to a name a few of the possible expenses.
"So let's not get distracted by that fact," Mr Mitchell said.
March 04, 2011
tribune242
By PACO NUNEZ
Tribune News Editor
MINISTER of National Security Tommy Turnquest revealed that according to police, several violent criminals were among the crowd that protested outside Parliament last week.
Speaking in the House of Assembly yesterday, Mr Turnquest said individuals known to police in connection with crimes as serious as murder, rape, armed robbery, assault with a deadly weapon and shop-breaking were "clearly identifiable" in the anti-BTC sale demonstration in Rawson Square last Wednesday.
Speaking to The Tribune outside the House, Mr Turnquest said the majority of these persons are out on bail, but some of them are convicted criminals.
"We have the pictures, we know who they are," he said.
Mr Turnquest said he raised the issue after opposition PLP members suggested that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham "ran out the back door," attempting to avoid the crowd after last week's session of parliament.
Speaking in the House, the National Security Minister said: "If someone asks me, what do I do in terms of ensuring the safety of the chief executive of the country, it is surely not to walk toward that crowd."
He added that Mr Ingraham is the sort of man who would never ask another person to do something the Prime Minister would not do himself.
Immediately after Mr Turnquest made his comments, PLP MP for West End and Bimini Obie Wilchcombe told the House his party was not responsible for "any unsavoury characters" turning up in Rawson Square.
Mr Wilchcombe said: "At no time was it our intention to put the PM's life in jeopardy. We believe in freedom of speech and the right to assembly, but at no time would we put life in jeopardy."
The protest, organised by a group known as Save BTC for Bahamians, was also joined by BTC union representatives and a large group of PLP supporters.
In the aftermath of the protest, which turned violent at certain points, PLP leader Perry Christie denied reports that he had paid protesters to turn up in Rawson Square.
Last week, Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell also commented in the House of Assembly on claims that protesters were paid by the party to demonstrate.
"Aside from that being untrue, so what if they were paid?" he asked, referring to the practice during the PLP's early protests in the 1960s.
"To mobilise people takes resources: food, buses, and communication, emergency care to a name a few of the possible expenses.
"So let's not get distracted by that fact," Mr Mitchell said.
March 04, 2011
tribune242
Sunday, October 3, 2010
West End and Bimini Constituents “Not Pleased” with their Member of Parliament - Obie Wilchcombe
Is Your MP Performing: West End, Bimini Constituents “Not Pleased”
By Sasha L. Lightbourne
It seems as if West End and Bimini Member of Parliament, Obie Wilchcombe has a lot of work to do if he plans to offer himself as a candidate for that constituency in the next general election.
The Bahama Journal began its weekly series entitled "Is Your MP Performing" several weeks ago.
When asked whether Mr. Wilchcombe was performing several residents said that their MP was not.
Megan McKenzie, a resident of West End, Grand Bahama told the Journal recently that she "rarely" sees her MP.
"He doesn’t really come to West End," she said.
"He is not usually a part of the things that happen in the community. I don’t think he’s performing. I can’t even tell you the last time that I saw him because it’s been that long. The thing is, he did so well during his election campaign and now he is no where to be found."
Janet Smith, who is also a West End resident, shared similar views.
"I don’t think he’s doing a good job because we don’t see him," she said.
"I haven’t seen him in West End and I moved back here from New Providence 10 years ago. I never expect anything from my MP though. They are all the same – they know you around election time and then they are absent for the next five years."
Another West End resident, who identified himself as ‘Doc’ Grant said Mr. Wilchcombe is not performing.
"Nothing is happening in West End," he said.
"I can’t tell you the last time I’ve seen him, so in my view he isn’t performing."
Mr. Wilchcombe is one of four MPs who has to visit more than one island to reach out to all his constituents.
Residents in Bimini shared similar sentiments.
Many claimed that they have not seen Mr. Wilchcombe in a while.
"I don’t think he is performing at all," Bimini resident, Lopez Bullard said.
"Nothing is getting done on the island. They need to be worried about the dump on the island – that’s a serious problem. We need him to come around more because we supported him a lot during the last election."
Mr. Bullard added that Mr. Wilchcombe is only usually on the island to attend funerals.
"He needs to step to the plate because the young people don’t play and we will switch on you quick," he said.
Ashley Hinzey felt the same way.
"As far as I can see I don’t think he is performing," he said.
"I don’t see him in the community. Everything in Bimini happens because of the private sector because we rarely see Obie. We may see him at a funeral or something but when we have festivals or community functions he is not around."
Mr. Hinzey said Mr. Wilchcombe is his friend but he does not think that he will vote for him in the next election.
"My MP is not around to see what’s going on," another Bimini resident said, who wished to remain anonymous.
"We have a lot of issues on the island especially that deals with the local government. Right now we have a problem with issuing taxi licences – the process for that is not fair."
The resident also said that the Bimini dump is an issue.
"It has not been filled in for the last few years and I think the MP needs to come down and take a look at it," he said.
However, one West End resident, Ruth Woodside, said she felt that Mr. Wilchcombe was "doing his best."
"I like Mr. Wilchcombe and he has been performing in my view," she said.
"We may not see him as much as we would like to but there are things happening in the community. Very little is happening in Grand Bahama because of the economy but there is nothing that Mr. Wilchcombe can do about it; he is doing his best."
September 27th, 2010
jonesbahamas
By Sasha L. Lightbourne
It seems as if West End and Bimini Member of Parliament, Obie Wilchcombe has a lot of work to do if he plans to offer himself as a candidate for that constituency in the next general election.
The Bahama Journal began its weekly series entitled "Is Your MP Performing" several weeks ago.
When asked whether Mr. Wilchcombe was performing several residents said that their MP was not.
Megan McKenzie, a resident of West End, Grand Bahama told the Journal recently that she "rarely" sees her MP.
"He doesn’t really come to West End," she said.
"He is not usually a part of the things that happen in the community. I don’t think he’s performing. I can’t even tell you the last time that I saw him because it’s been that long. The thing is, he did so well during his election campaign and now he is no where to be found."
Janet Smith, who is also a West End resident, shared similar views.
"I don’t think he’s doing a good job because we don’t see him," she said.
"I haven’t seen him in West End and I moved back here from New Providence 10 years ago. I never expect anything from my MP though. They are all the same – they know you around election time and then they are absent for the next five years."
Another West End resident, who identified himself as ‘Doc’ Grant said Mr. Wilchcombe is not performing.
"Nothing is happening in West End," he said.
"I can’t tell you the last time I’ve seen him, so in my view he isn’t performing."
Mr. Wilchcombe is one of four MPs who has to visit more than one island to reach out to all his constituents.
Residents in Bimini shared similar sentiments.
Many claimed that they have not seen Mr. Wilchcombe in a while.
"I don’t think he is performing at all," Bimini resident, Lopez Bullard said.
"Nothing is getting done on the island. They need to be worried about the dump on the island – that’s a serious problem. We need him to come around more because we supported him a lot during the last election."
Mr. Bullard added that Mr. Wilchcombe is only usually on the island to attend funerals.
"He needs to step to the plate because the young people don’t play and we will switch on you quick," he said.
Ashley Hinzey felt the same way.
"As far as I can see I don’t think he is performing," he said.
"I don’t see him in the community. Everything in Bimini happens because of the private sector because we rarely see Obie. We may see him at a funeral or something but when we have festivals or community functions he is not around."
Mr. Hinzey said Mr. Wilchcombe is his friend but he does not think that he will vote for him in the next election.
"My MP is not around to see what’s going on," another Bimini resident said, who wished to remain anonymous.
"We have a lot of issues on the island especially that deals with the local government. Right now we have a problem with issuing taxi licences – the process for that is not fair."
The resident also said that the Bimini dump is an issue.
"It has not been filled in for the last few years and I think the MP needs to come down and take a look at it," he said.
However, one West End resident, Ruth Woodside, said she felt that Mr. Wilchcombe was "doing his best."
"I like Mr. Wilchcombe and he has been performing in my view," she said.
"We may not see him as much as we would like to but there are things happening in the community. Very little is happening in Grand Bahama because of the economy but there is nothing that Mr. Wilchcombe can do about it; he is doing his best."
September 27th, 2010
jonesbahamas
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Obie Wilchcombe: ...the amount of foreign labour needed for the Baha Mar project is "politically toxic"
The PLP 'still want Baha Mar vote to be carried by govt'
tribune242
THE Progressive Liberal Party has reportedly voted in favour of continuing to allow the government to carry the burden of whether or not the Baha Mar labour resolution is passed in the House of Assembly when it is brought before Parliament next month.
According to party sources who spoke to The Tribune yesterday, the PLP met and discussed the matter on Sunday night, and have stuck to their initial position that this vote will have to be carried by the current "FNM government."
On Sunday, PLP leader Perry Christie said the party will of course be directly influenced by the "complete urgency" to do something for the economy of the Bahamas.
"It is an increasing serious state of affairs that exists here. The country is desperately in need of relief in respect to this dire unemployment situation. The question for us in examining in detail the implications of whatever the number of work permits are, the impact on Bahamian labour, and the length of time of the work permits," he said.
Having financially backed the $2.6 billion investment, the People's Republic of China is also requesting some 4,920 work permits for Chinese labour for the construction of the project. These work permits will come before Parliament in the resolution on September 8 to be voted on.
Leader of Opposition Business in the House of Assembly, Obie Wilchcombe, has already described the amount of foreign labour needed for the project as "politically toxic" - adding that the government is requiring Parliament to vote on the matter to avoid taking the brunt of what is expected to be massive public criticism in the near future.
August 24, 2010
tribune242
tribune242
THE Progressive Liberal Party has reportedly voted in favour of continuing to allow the government to carry the burden of whether or not the Baha Mar labour resolution is passed in the House of Assembly when it is brought before Parliament next month.
According to party sources who spoke to The Tribune yesterday, the PLP met and discussed the matter on Sunday night, and have stuck to their initial position that this vote will have to be carried by the current "FNM government."
On Sunday, PLP leader Perry Christie said the party will of course be directly influenced by the "complete urgency" to do something for the economy of the Bahamas.
"It is an increasing serious state of affairs that exists here. The country is desperately in need of relief in respect to this dire unemployment situation. The question for us in examining in detail the implications of whatever the number of work permits are, the impact on Bahamian labour, and the length of time of the work permits," he said.
Having financially backed the $2.6 billion investment, the People's Republic of China is also requesting some 4,920 work permits for Chinese labour for the construction of the project. These work permits will come before Parliament in the resolution on September 8 to be voted on.
Leader of Opposition Business in the House of Assembly, Obie Wilchcombe, has already described the amount of foreign labour needed for the project as "politically toxic" - adding that the government is requiring Parliament to vote on the matter to avoid taking the brunt of what is expected to be massive public criticism in the near future.
August 24, 2010
tribune242
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
PLP chief Melissa Sears 'offended' by party leader - Perry Christie's remarks
PLP chief 'offended' by Christie remarks
tribune242:
PLP CHIEF Melissa Sears quit her job as vice chairman because she was "offended" by verbal remarks made by party leader Perry Christie, The Tribune learned last night.
As speculation mounts surrounding her departure, it is being reported that she decided to resign following a meeting in Grand Bahama.
According to sources very close to the matter, Mr Christie was in Grand Bahama to rally the party's machinery sometime earlier this month. At this meeting, it was claimed, he made the point that he had "no time" for Ms Sears -- who was in earshot of the remark.
Although the comment was admittedly "harsh", one PLP source explained that the party leader was sending the message that he was aware of Ms Sears' alleged allegiance to other would-be leaders within the organisation.
"She was a known anti-Christie during the PLP convention and even before that. So he had to let her know that he was aware of that fact. In this (political) climate you have to do what you have to do," the source added.
When contacted for comment on the matter, PLP chairman Bradley Roberts said he doubted that Mr Christie would make such a remark, and directed The Tribune to speak to the party leader directly.
However, repeated attempts to reach Mr Christie proved unsuccessful, and messages left were not returned up to press time last night.
While Ms Sears' alleged allegiance to one faction or the other is not known officially, it has been reported that she was a staunch supporter of PLP deputy leader challenger Obie Wilchcombe who came to her defence in yesterday's Tribune.
In that article, Mr Wilchcombe said Ms Sears was an "outstanding young woman" who still has a career in politics.
"She is an outstanding orator and has her hands around the issues facing people. She believes in people and has committed herself to helping the least amongst us. Her decision does not mean her political life is over or her relationship with the PLP," said the West End and Bimini MP.
However, a former leadership candidate during the PLP's 51st National Convention in 2008, Paul Moss, said the PLP has to address the fact that the party is losing good and qualified persons "left, right, and centre."
Having resigned from the PLP himself, Mr Moss asked the public to question why "good partisan people" are incapable of having a voice and even staying with the party.
"The party's inability to have introspection to prepare itself moving forward to being the alternative to the government, they have not done that. They are trying to win at all costs. And I don't think that is going to work, even against a third party," he said.
April 27, 2010
tribune242
tribune242:
PLP CHIEF Melissa Sears quit her job as vice chairman because she was "offended" by verbal remarks made by party leader Perry Christie, The Tribune learned last night.
As speculation mounts surrounding her departure, it is being reported that she decided to resign following a meeting in Grand Bahama.
According to sources very close to the matter, Mr Christie was in Grand Bahama to rally the party's machinery sometime earlier this month. At this meeting, it was claimed, he made the point that he had "no time" for Ms Sears -- who was in earshot of the remark.
Although the comment was admittedly "harsh", one PLP source explained that the party leader was sending the message that he was aware of Ms Sears' alleged allegiance to other would-be leaders within the organisation.
"She was a known anti-Christie during the PLP convention and even before that. So he had to let her know that he was aware of that fact. In this (political) climate you have to do what you have to do," the source added.
When contacted for comment on the matter, PLP chairman Bradley Roberts said he doubted that Mr Christie would make such a remark, and directed The Tribune to speak to the party leader directly.
However, repeated attempts to reach Mr Christie proved unsuccessful, and messages left were not returned up to press time last night.
While Ms Sears' alleged allegiance to one faction or the other is not known officially, it has been reported that she was a staunch supporter of PLP deputy leader challenger Obie Wilchcombe who came to her defence in yesterday's Tribune.
In that article, Mr Wilchcombe said Ms Sears was an "outstanding young woman" who still has a career in politics.
"She is an outstanding orator and has her hands around the issues facing people. She believes in people and has committed herself to helping the least amongst us. Her decision does not mean her political life is over or her relationship with the PLP," said the West End and Bimini MP.
However, a former leadership candidate during the PLP's 51st National Convention in 2008, Paul Moss, said the PLP has to address the fact that the party is losing good and qualified persons "left, right, and centre."
Having resigned from the PLP himself, Mr Moss asked the public to question why "good partisan people" are incapable of having a voice and even staying with the party.
"The party's inability to have introspection to prepare itself moving forward to being the alternative to the government, they have not done that. They are trying to win at all costs. And I don't think that is going to work, even against a third party," he said.
April 27, 2010
tribune242
Monday, April 26, 2010
Melissa Sears resigns as a Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) vice chairman
Melissa Sears resigns as a PLP vice chairman
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
RISING star in the Progressive Liberal Party, Melissa Sears, has resigned her post as vice chairman of the PLP.
Bradley Roberts, PLP chairman, said he received a resignation letter from Ms Sears on April 20. The letter did not indicate the reason for her resignation, and Mr Roberts said he has yet to speak with her to gain further insight into her reason for resigning.
Ms Sears made an impression on the PLP leadership in 2008 when she delivered a speech at the party's convention. She was voted into office during the October 2009 PLP Convention.
"Melissa is an outstanding young woman who has a career in politics. She is an outstanding orator and has her hands around the issues facing people. She believes in people and has committed herself to helping the least among us. Her decision does not mean her political life is over or her relationship with the PLP," said Obie Wilchcombe, West End Member of Parliament. Ms Sears endorsed Mr Wilchcombe for deputy leader of the party when he contested the seat last year.
"She was the bright star of the (2008) convention and demonstrated then her tremendous oratory skills and her passion for people and her courage and determination as a fighter, which is required in front line politics," said Mr Wilchcombe.
Ms Sears had been touted as a potential candidate for the PLP in Marco City, Grand Bahama. This seat was formerly contested by Pleasant Bridgewater, against the FNM's Zhivargo Laing.
Ms Sears grew up in Marco City, but Mr Wilchcombe said she would be a qualified candidate for a number of Grand Bahama constituencies.
He said she had never written to the party to express interest in being a candidate, or applied formally. However, the party had been trying to encourage her.
"We have over the years sought to convince her to be a candidate. There comes a time when a party must recruit and look for the best and the brightest and she has proven that she is prepared to serve and not to be served. So she is one of those persons who we certainly would love to see carry the banner and be a standard bearer," said Mr Wilchcombe. "I believe this might be considered by some a bump in the road or a step backward, but I don't see it that way."
April 26, 2010
tribune242
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
RISING star in the Progressive Liberal Party, Melissa Sears, has resigned her post as vice chairman of the PLP.
Bradley Roberts, PLP chairman, said he received a resignation letter from Ms Sears on April 20. The letter did not indicate the reason for her resignation, and Mr Roberts said he has yet to speak with her to gain further insight into her reason for resigning.
Ms Sears made an impression on the PLP leadership in 2008 when she delivered a speech at the party's convention. She was voted into office during the October 2009 PLP Convention.
"Melissa is an outstanding young woman who has a career in politics. She is an outstanding orator and has her hands around the issues facing people. She believes in people and has committed herself to helping the least among us. Her decision does not mean her political life is over or her relationship with the PLP," said Obie Wilchcombe, West End Member of Parliament. Ms Sears endorsed Mr Wilchcombe for deputy leader of the party when he contested the seat last year.
"She was the bright star of the (2008) convention and demonstrated then her tremendous oratory skills and her passion for people and her courage and determination as a fighter, which is required in front line politics," said Mr Wilchcombe.
Ms Sears had been touted as a potential candidate for the PLP in Marco City, Grand Bahama. This seat was formerly contested by Pleasant Bridgewater, against the FNM's Zhivargo Laing.
Ms Sears grew up in Marco City, but Mr Wilchcombe said she would be a qualified candidate for a number of Grand Bahama constituencies.
He said she had never written to the party to express interest in being a candidate, or applied formally. However, the party had been trying to encourage her.
"We have over the years sought to convince her to be a candidate. There comes a time when a party must recruit and look for the best and the brightest and she has proven that she is prepared to serve and not to be served. So she is one of those persons who we certainly would love to see carry the banner and be a standard bearer," said Mr Wilchcombe. "I believe this might be considered by some a bump in the road or a step backward, but I don't see it that way."
April 26, 2010
tribune242
Friday, January 8, 2010
Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) MPs react to Malcolm Adderley's resignation
By BRENT DEAN ~ Guardian Senior Reporter ~ brentldean@nasguard.com:
Several prominent Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) MPs have expressed disappointment at the decision by Malcolm Adderley to resign his Elizabeth constituency seat.
"Well, it is always disappointing when you would lose a colleague in any circumstances really," said PLP MP for Yamacraw Melanie Griffin. Her constituency borders Elizabeth.
She expressed further disappointment that "fences could not be mended" between the party and Adderley for the betterment of the people of Elizabeth.
"But Elizabeth knows that Yamacraw has always been there for them. We have done our best to support them and we'll always be there," she said.
PLP Deputy Leader Philip Brave Davis said Adderley had regularly told them that he was a PLP. "And we always thought he would remain a PLP," added Davis, who is also the Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP.
Davis said that if Adderley considered himself a PLP he could have remained with the organization despite having differences with its leadership.
"Well, you never want to lose a member... but you respect the decision that's made by our colleague. Malcolm and I were pretty close – we got along very well," said West End and Bimini MP Obie Wilchcombe.
"In fact when I was minister of Tourism I appointed him the chairman of the Gaming Board. So we had a wonderful relationship."
Wilchcombe, who is also leader of opposition business, added that despite the loss of a member, the PLP moves on.
"The party obviously will reminisce on his contribution, but we are moving toward what we have to do in the future and we're not going to be distracted by any departure," he said.
"The Progressive Liberal Party has a lot of work to do. The party has to now look at its message in the years moving forward. We have to look at our messengers – all – all who represent the constituencies and we have to determine how we're going to proceed."
It is expected that the Elizabeth by-election will be held in February.
It is still unclear if the PLP will contest the by-election. The party has said it lacks funds and that the process surrounding Adderley's resignation is problematic.
The opposition has accused the government and prime minister of offering Adderley a post as a Supreme Court justice, threatening the separation between the branches of government.
January 8, 2010
thenassauguardian
Several prominent Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) MPs have expressed disappointment at the decision by Malcolm Adderley to resign his Elizabeth constituency seat.
"Well, it is always disappointing when you would lose a colleague in any circumstances really," said PLP MP for Yamacraw Melanie Griffin. Her constituency borders Elizabeth.
She expressed further disappointment that "fences could not be mended" between the party and Adderley for the betterment of the people of Elizabeth.
"But Elizabeth knows that Yamacraw has always been there for them. We have done our best to support them and we'll always be there," she said.
PLP Deputy Leader Philip Brave Davis said Adderley had regularly told them that he was a PLP. "And we always thought he would remain a PLP," added Davis, who is also the Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP.
Davis said that if Adderley considered himself a PLP he could have remained with the organization despite having differences with its leadership.
"Well, you never want to lose a member... but you respect the decision that's made by our colleague. Malcolm and I were pretty close – we got along very well," said West End and Bimini MP Obie Wilchcombe.
"In fact when I was minister of Tourism I appointed him the chairman of the Gaming Board. So we had a wonderful relationship."
Wilchcombe, who is also leader of opposition business, added that despite the loss of a member, the PLP moves on.
"The party obviously will reminisce on his contribution, but we are moving toward what we have to do in the future and we're not going to be distracted by any departure," he said.
"The Progressive Liberal Party has a lot of work to do. The party has to now look at its message in the years moving forward. We have to look at our messengers – all – all who represent the constituencies and we have to determine how we're going to proceed."
It is expected that the Elizabeth by-election will be held in February.
It is still unclear if the PLP will contest the by-election. The party has said it lacks funds and that the process surrounding Adderley's resignation is problematic.
The opposition has accused the government and prime minister of offering Adderley a post as a Supreme Court justice, threatening the separation between the branches of government.
January 8, 2010
thenassauguardian
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